Accelerating neural
drug discovery
Capturing the complexity of the brain with accurate, heterogeneous, human, highly-scalable 3D models
The Benefits of RealBrain® Models
Greater predictive insight, at scale
RealBrain® captures the complexity of the brain by differentiating neural stem cells in an advanced, chemically defined polymer matrix. The resultant 3D models contain a heterogeneous cell population with functional neural networks in a cell-secreted ECM. These models are fully compatible with 96 and 384-well plate formats, can be produced in just 3 weeks, and offer excellent reproducibility and optical clarity.
High-throughput manufacturing
RealBrain® micro-tissues are produced in an automated process offering high scalability and reproducibility
RealBrain® Matrix
The chemically defined RealBrain® matrix (blue and green components) closely mimics the biological cues of CNS tissue. It encourages stem cell differentiation and secretion of natural extra-cellular matrix (ECM), and is fully remodelled by the cells during maturation.
Developing Neural Networks
The RealBrain® matrix promotes differentiating stem cells to secrete enzymes and ECM proteins that replace the synthetic polymers. The natural extra-cellular matrix (ECM) acts as a reservoir of signalling molecules that direct neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation.
Mature Micro-Tissues
RealBrain® micro-tissues present extensive neuronal networks and a heterogeneous mix of neuronal cell-types that mimic in-vivo neural tissue with patterning and sulci reminiscent of the human cortex. The chemically defined matrix has been replaced by cell-secreted ECM.
The RealBrain® Platform
Four advanced models
The RealBrain® platform under development contains 4 product lines spanning normal and disease states:
ARTIBrain™ Model: Captures the complexity of normal human brain tissue
ADBrain™ Model: Models the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's Disease
TBIBrain™ Model: Recapitulates the scarring of traumatic brain injury
DEVBrain™ Model: Demonstrates the developmental processes of the human brain
The RealBrain® Matrix
Chemically defined matrix drives development
RealBrain® models are formed utilising the chemically defined RealBrain® Matrix, which provides the ideal micro-environment for development of a heterogeneous and fully functional neural cell population.
The matrix is specifically designed to encourage neural development and differentiation, whilst in parallel allowing cells to remodel the matrix as natural ECM is secreted. Mature RealBrain® models comprise a heterogeneous cell population embedded in a fully natural ECM that has replaced the starting matrix.
RealBrain® Functionality
Functionally mature neural networks
The hetergeneous cell population of neurons, astrocytes and glia demonstrates a range of neural functionality
Synaptic maturity: Functional synapses with pre- & post-synaptic markers
Responsiveness: Neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, serotonin, norepinephrine
Voltage gated channels: K+ and Na+ currents across a range of membrane potentials
RealBrain® Analytics
Data science meets physiological relevance
Increase the predictivity of efficacy and safety studies by combining the high physiological relevance and reproducibility of RealBrain® micro-tissues, with cutting edge data science and advanced analytical methods based on either image or biochemical endpoints.
Need more info?
Visit our downloads page for a video overview, product downloads, and to sign-up for the RealBrain® early-access program.
ARTIBrain product summary
For more technical details about the RealBrain® model, please Contact Us
Starting Cell-Type
Neural Progenitor Cells
Scaffold
RealBrain® Matrix
Maturity
21 Days
Mature Phenotype
Glia / Neurons / NPCs
Format
96 or 384 well
High Optical Clarity
Yes
Disease Versions Under Development
Yes
Acute & Chronic Toxicity
Yes
